By Our Italian Football Correspondent
WHILE the eyes of the world often drift toward the glitz of Milan or the heat of Rome, the real star power burned bright in Reggio Emilia yesterday. Domenico Berardi proved once again why he is the undisputed king of the Mapei Stadium, orchestrating a 2-1 victory over a resilient Como 1907 side that featured flashes of brilliance from their own high-profile recruits.
The encounter was billed as a clash of philosophies: the established Serie A stalwarts against Cesc Fàbregas’ ambitious, star-studded project.
The Breakthrough: It didn’t take long for the talisman to make his mark. In the 22nd minute, Berardi cut inside with his trademark lethal left foot, curling a strike into the top corner that left the keeper rooted.
The Fightback: Como, captained by the veteran presence of Patrick Cutrone, didn’t shrink. Just before the break, a slick interchange involving former Real Madrid star Nico Paz saw the visitors level the scoring, sending the travelling fans into a frenzy.
The Decider: The second half belonged to the hosts’ rising star, Armand Laurienté. The Frenchman’s electric pace was a constant thorn in Como’s side, eventually winning a penalty that was clinicaly dispatched to secure the three points.
The Verdict
”We knew Como would bring their ‘A-game’ with the names they have on that sheet, but class is permanent. Domenico [Berardi] showed today that he still dictates the rhythm of this league.”
— Sassuolo Coaching Staff
For Fàbregas and his Como outfit, it’s a bitter pill to swallow. Despite the heavy investment in “name” players and the tactical ingenuity shown in patches, they lacked the clinical edge that Sassuolo’s seasoned stars provided.
Final Score: Sassuolo 2, Como 1907 1.
